The Third Hokage

Danzo's words struck every heart like a heavy hammer.

Homura and Koharu frowned deeply, clearly weighing that possibility as well.

Allowing the Tailed Beast tactics of other ninja villages to become the norm would be a nightmare for any great nation.

Hiruzen Sarutobi silently drew on his pipe, letting the slightly pungent smoke swirl through his lungs.

He slowly exhaled, and the curling blue smoke briefly obscured his expression before it dispersed.

He lightly tapped his pipe against the edge of the ashtray with a crisp click, drawing everyone's attention.

"Danzo is right," the Third Hokage said in a calm yet powerful voice that echoed through the room.

"Since Hidden Sand Village dares to break the unspoken agreement and directly send a Jinchuriki—a 'weapon of war'—to the front lines,

then they must be prepared to bear the consequences. If they think the One-Tail can come whenever it wants,

and leave whenever it wants... where would Leaf Village's dignity be?"

He paused, his gaze sweeping over the three advisors as the bearing of a legendary shinobi washed over them.

"Therefore, I will act personally."

"What? Hiruzen, you're going yourself?!" Koharu cried out despite herself, her face full of disapproval and concern.

For the Hokage to personally head to the front lines was extremely dangerous. Should anything happen to him, it would be a devastating blow to Leaf Village.

Homura also furrowed his brow deeply.

"Hiruzen, this matter is of great importance. Shouldn't we deliberate further?

Or send another elite squad to carry out an assassination or capture mission? It would be safer for you to remain at the center of command."

A complicated gleam flashed through Shimura Danzō's lone eye. This was the Monkey he knew.

Danzo did not immediately object. He simply waited quietly for Hiruzen Sarutobi to continue.

Hiruzen